The transformation of an empty industrial building into a university institute is underway.

The Cultural Heritage Institution, part of the Royal Agricultural University, will be sited, appropriately enough, in a vital part of Swindon's industrial and cultural heritage- the Great Western railway carriage works in Bristol Street.

When opened in 2020 it will offer degrees and qualifications to people interested in working in archaeology, heritage tourism and management - an increasingly important sector of Britain's economy.

Swindon Borough Council owns the building and says the transformation is part of its plans to find new uses for its heritage sites.

The council completed a first phase of redevelopment last year to provide new flexible office space for small businesses – a facility now known as WorkShed. The works planned for the Cultural Heritage Institute form part of a second phase of redevelopment that will also create additional office space.

Dale Heenan, the council’s cabinet member for the town centre, said: “The Carriage Works is a huge statement of intent for Swindon, and I’m proud the Council has taken the bold step of bringing it back into use for businesses to use today.

“This Grade II listed building was once a thriving part of the town’s railway works and a sign of Victorian innovation, but it closed more than 30 years ago. Today, the ground breaking for Unit 11 marks the second phase of regeneration. A space of 19,000 square feet that will become home to a new Cultural Heritage Institute, and demonstrates the Council’s commitment to increasing our town's higher education provision.

“I am pleased we have found such a great partner in the Royal Agricultural University and the Carriage Works will allow them to deliver heritage-themed academic and practical courses.

“Our working relationship continues to build, and the Director of the Institute has agreed to lend his expertise to our Mechanics Institute restoration Technical group. I can just imagine future students using the neighbouring Mechanics building as a case study in their courses.

“RAU is thinking about Swindon differently and I hope residents, students and businesses will too. This really is exciting for Swindon, the University and future students.”

The Director of the Cultural Heritage Institute, Dr Geraint Coles, said: “At the RAU we are very excited by the tremendous opportunities offered by our new centre in Swindon. The institute will be an exciting place to learn and grow. We teach from experience and work closely with practitioners to offer courses which meet industry needs. It is appropriate and fitting that we will be working in a heritage building and contributing to the revitalisation of the unique historic environment of the Railway Village.We are looking forward to becoming part of the Swindon learning community.”

Director of the contractors Beard, Marc Bayley added: “We are delighted to be partnering with Swindon Borough Council to continue the refurbishment and restoration of Swindon’s historic Carriage Works.

“As a business trading in Swindon for over 125 years, we are thrilled to be part of this prestigious project which is key to the redevelopment and the future of Swindon.”